Mini
The mini is arguably one of the most popular, and iconic, British-made cars. It first hit the streets back in 1959 and took off with such popularity that it has become an image most notoriously associated with the swinging 60s.
The unique design of the mini first came about as a result of the Suez crisis in 1956. A fuel shortage, and subsequent rationing of petrol, resulted in a slump in the sale of larger cars and a positive boom in the market for small cars.
Production of the classic mini continued at the British Motor Corporation (BMC) until the year 2000 when the brand was bought by the German motor company, BMW, who introduced a modern take on the classic design. The new design has caused some controversy amongst some mini traditionalists - only time will tell whether or not the public's love affair with the car will continue in the decades to come.
The stamp below, featuring a mini, was released in September 1966 as part of the British Technology (British Motor-Cars) stamp issue.
- Illustration
6d stamp featuring a mini, 1966
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